Page 16 - Bellfort Magazine 2025

School Council elections ran as usual in September and the new teams were eager to use their
voices in all aspects of school life.

Meetings focused on the updating of school policies, some after direction from the Education
Minister, to discuss key aspects of school life, including the mobile phone policy, school uniform
expectations, and the quality of lessons. Students contributed valuable and mature perspectives
during these discussions.

Mobile Phone Policy: Concerns were raised about phones causing distractions during the school
day by the Education Minister and three possible solutions were put to the school body, with Pupil
Voice being an important aspect of the new policy. The aim is to strike a balance between
responsible use of technology and maintaining focus on learning. There was a strong consensus on

School Uniform: Discussions around school uniform focused on practicality, comfort and value for
money. It was agreed that a smart, unified appearance promotes a sense of pride and belonging.
Some feedback suggested greater flexibility in certain areas, such as seasonal wear or footwear.
These suggestions are being considered as part of a possible uniform policy update.

Quality of Lessons: Participants praised many aspects of teaching across the school, noting high
levels of planning and engagement. The lesson cycle was discussed as well as the value and place
of homework. There was a shared ambition to ensure consistently high-quality lessons in all
subjects.

Outside, active playground: pupils articulated the need for new nets in the playground and a
greater number of footballs, basketballs and netballs.

Fundraising: Members nominated charities for the year with Turning Point NI and Prostate Cancer
being chosen. In November, on House Colours Day, funds were split between Children IN Need
and Turning Point NI. Middle Council ran a ‘Guess the Name of the Easter Bunny’’ competition,
raising £55 for Prostate Cancer, a charity agreed by School Council Members.

The meetings were productive and provided clear direction for future improvements. Action
points from each discussion are being reviewed, with the goal of enhancing the school
environment and learning experience for all students.